Former Exotic World opens in Las Vegas

(Editor's note: Despite the somewhat risqué subject matter, all of the links are safe and contain no nudity.) The Burlesque Hall of Fame, formerly Exotic World Museum off Route 66 in Helendale, Calif., opened to the public in its new digs in downtown Las Vegas this week, reports the Las Vegas Review-Journal. Exotic World became a treasured … Continue reading Former Exotic World opens in Las Vegas

“Sur la Route 66”

I don't understand the language, but the arrangement grabbed me almost instantly. This is French actor and singer Eddy Mitchell on "Sur la Route 66." (Note: The animation is sorta interesting, but not terribly germane, I reckon.) Anyone have a translation? UPDATE: Vincent Desmonts has provided a translation to English here.

Last frame coming for 66 Bowl

The historic 66 Bowl of Oklahoma City has been sold to an India grocer, and its last bowling frame will occur in mid-August. Spices of India, down the road from the 66 Bowl on the Northwest 39th Street alignment of Route 66, has bought the bowling center and concert venue, reported Oklahoma Route 66 expert … Continue reading Last frame coming for 66 Bowl

Notes from the road

(Editor's note: This is my Catch Up from the Memorial Day Holiday Edition.) Actor and director Dennis Hopper died over the weekend after a long bout with prostate cancer. He was 74. A memorial service and burial was held Wednesday at a church in his beloved Taos, N.M., where he lived for years. Although a … Continue reading Notes from the road

Wagon Wheel Motel reopens to travelers

The Wagon Wheel Motel in Cuba, Mo., will partially reopen to travelers this weekend, then will have a full opening the following weekend, according to its owner. This comes after months of renovations on the historic Route 66 property. Owner Connie Echols, who bought the motel in fall 2009, said three rooms will be available … Continue reading Wagon Wheel Motel reopens to travelers

Programming note

I just got back home from traveling during the Memorial Day weekend, with very little Internet access the entire time. So I'll be playing catch-up on the news along Route 66 in the next day or so. Nothing really big or urgent had occurred, but I think you'll find some of the items I'll be … Continue reading Programming note

Presentation dates set for California Route 66 study

The California Preservation Foundation, the Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program and hired consultants Mead & Hunt have set a series of dates this month along Route 66 for presentations on a forthcoming comprehensive historical study of Route 66 in California. According to a news release from the foundation: “We are encouraging all Route 66 enthusiasts, … Continue reading Presentation dates set for California Route 66 study

Memorial Day tribute

Here is a list of military personnel from Route 66 towns who have died in Iraq and Afghanistan. I’ve also added informative links to each of the fallen, wherever possible. ILLINOIS Chicago Staff Sgt. Oscar D. Vargas-Medina, died May 1, 2004 1st Sgt. Edward Smith, died April 5, 2003 Sgt. Ivory L. Phipps, died March … Continue reading Memorial Day tribute

“Honkytonk Stomp”

You might see a familiar Route 66 landmark in the Texas Panhandle featured prominently in this Brooks & Dunn video. And, yes, that's Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top in the pool hall, and on guitar and guest vocals.